MEDIA RELEASE 29 AUGUST 2025
Winton Set to Unveil Ray Hermann Statue at Outback Festival
Winton Shire Council and the Diamantina Rodeo and Campdraft Association are proud to announce that the much-anticipated Ray Hermann statue will be officially unveiled during the Outback Festival on Thursday 25 September 2025.
The bronze statue honours one of the world’s best saddle bronc riders, Ray “The Winton Whiz” Hermann, whose career put Winton on the world rodeo stage. Ray won his first Saddle Bronc World Title in 1978 at just 19 years of age, went on to claim a second in 1981, and secured seven Australian Saddle Bronc titles between 1980 and 1987.
Born in Winton on 13 February 1959, Ray still lives in his hometown, remaining a beloved figure in the community and an inspiration for young people across the Outback.
Mayor Cathy White said the unveiling would be a proud and emotional moment for the town.
“Ray’s achievements are legendary, but what makes him so special is his deep connection to Winton and the way he’s carried our community spirit with him throughout his career. This statue is more than a tribute to his skill – it’s a celebration of the grit, determination, and heart that defines the Outback.”
“The Winton Whiz showed the world what a boy from the bush can do, and we are thrilled to see his story cast in bronze for generations to admire.”
The statue was an initiative of the Diamantina Rodeo & Campdraft Association Inc. to honour Ray Hermann’s extraordinary rodeo career and his lifelong contribution to the Winton community. The statue is based on Darryl Doyle’s iconic 1985 photograph of Ray riding Gill Bros’ ‘Brock’ at Dingo, Queensland, and was brought to life by sculptors Tom and Travis Tischler, featuring Ray’s original riding gear.
PJ Elliott, President of the Diamantina Rodeo & Campdraft Association Inc., said:
“Anyone who knows anything about rodeo knows about Winton through Ray Hermann’s achievements. From a kid having fun in the bush, riding steers and horses on the Common, to achieving what he did – it’s an incredible story. This statue is a tribute to Ray’s legacy and a reminder to kids today to dream big because anything is possible.”
The Diamantina Rodeo & Campdraft Association has been actively fundraising to meet the statue’s $148,000 production and shipping costs. Winton Shire Council has contributed $90,000, with a further $38,000 donated by supporters, leaving $20,000 still to be raised.
Current fundraising activities include a $100 board and a Thermomix raffle. For more information, or to make a donation, contact Patrice Elliott at wintoncampdraft@outlook.com
Donations over $1,000 will receive a signed photograph of Ray’s 1985 ride, and donations over $5,000 will receive an 18cm bronze miniature of the statue.
The unveiling of the Ray Hermann statue will take place during the Outback Festival, bringing locals and visitors together to honour a true Winton legend.
The Outback Festival runs from 23–27 September during the Queensland school holidays, featuring five days of quintessential outback fun in Winton. For more information, visit https://outbackfestival.com.au/.
(ENDS)
For media enquiries, please contact: Mayor Cathy White - 0467 629 513